IELTS refers to the International English Learning Testing Service. It is a test requiring scores from around 12,000 international universities globally. It assists students in working, studying, or immigrating abroad to any English-speaking Country.
It is a mechanism that grades your English language skills based on four key domains: speaking, writing, listening, and reading. The IELTS test band score is between 0 and 9; a score of 7 is considered an average score and is mainly accepted by universities worldwide, while a score lower than seven is regarded as a low score and is not widely accepted.
It is commonly assumed that preparing for IELTS requires months of sitting and reading and exhausting yourself. Still, on the contrary, it involves following and applying specific tips and IELTS techniques to assist you on this journey and save you precious time by studying and practicing smartly.
In this blog, we have compiled a list of essential tips for IELTS Preparation that will help you score well in each section of the test and boost your overall test band.
Significance of IELTS
IELTS is necessary in a world where everyone wants to reach their dream positions, schools, or countries.
It is a universally accepted and recognized assessment, making it a more viable option for people worldwide. IELTS is required for all, be it universities, jobs, or immigration.
IELTS is the perfect option if you plan to enroll in a foreign university or college based in an English-speaking state. These international educational institutions require the scores to assess students’ language proficiency.
Besides educational opportunities, recruiters in English-speaking countries mainly require IELTS. It is mandatory to ensure smooth communication between the employee and employer and that collaboration is not compromised.
One of the primary concerns of students is how to achieve good scores on their first attempt; it could get quite challenging to score well in all sections of the test, which is why people tend to get different scores in different sections, affecting their overall score band.
Immigration is another domain where IELTS is required. In any state, Canada, USA, UK, or elsewhere, English proficiency tests are required to get visas. In the case of Canadian immigration, a higher language proficiency can significantly increase your CRS score.
It is a test that tests all your skills, from reading to writing, listening, and speaking. Whether you are from any background or ethnicity, this test objectively compares and tests candidates.
Given its significance, this test’s popularity has led to several preparation courses and resources, making it easy for test takers to earn good marks.
Tips for IELTS preparation
We have compiled some practical tips for IELTS preparation that can be used to boost your overall score:
- Practice reading daily: The IELTS reading test requires you to read extracts from different sources, such as books, magazines, newspapers, and handbooks. It has three parts and requires quick decision-making and understanding of the material. Practice reading daily to help you comprehend and analyze topics quickly to fetch good marks on the reading test.
- Getting to know the basics of the test: To get good scores, it is essential to familiarise yourself with the basics. This includes the format of the different sections of the test, such as listening, speaking, or reading. Watch videos and take recommendations from people who have passed this exam to guide you better.
- Enhance your vocabulary: IELTS is an international testing service where thousands of people apply daily to boost their marks; enhancing your vocabulary is the key. Convince the test conductor that your English speaking and writing skills could improve. Avoid repeating the exact words; instead, try to use different synonyms and antonyms of words.
- Speak clearly: Avoid stuttering while answering questions, which can negatively impact your test score. Try to clear your head, relax, and practice speaking in front of the mirror before the actual speaking test.
- Improve your listening skills: The listening test consists of 40 questions, and students must complete it within 30 minutes. It is a significant stage of the test that is based on two steps. It showcases your listening ability and attentiveness. Hence, practicing listening beforehand is crucial, so try listening to different useful podcasts that might help you during the test.
- Read the instructions carefully: Most candidates must complete the essential test instructions and do the opposite of what was demanded. Therefore, before proceeding with the test, read the instructions thoroughly and then attempt the test according to those instructions. Most candidates need help comprehending what the test demands and score low on the test.
- Answering questions effectively: Some questions in the test require you to respond with a simple yes or a no but try adding more details and descriptions to your answer to leave a better impression on the tester.
- Improve writing speed and enhance your writing skills: The IELTS writing test consists of two stages and must be completed in 90 minutes. Therefore, Practice writing rigorously before the actual test. This will help you answer the questions within the required timeframe without problems.
- Attempting mock tests of IELTS: Before appearing for the official exam, try to solve at least one mock exam that covers all the sections. This will help you understand the test dynamics and familiarize yourself with the test day environment. These tests will help you prepare to tackle any topic that comes your way on the original test.
- Leaving ample time to review your answers: At the end, try to manage your time and leave some time to review your answers to make sure you have not made any major errors. Cross-checking is a significant part of submitting the test.
- Working on your Time management skills: Managing time during the test is a crucial determining factor of whether you will score well or poorly. For this reason, it is essential to practice before appearing in the test. Work on your time and try to solve the sections within the provided time. This can only happen if you practice multiple times before the test.
Conclusion
To sum up, IELTS is a universally accepted test required by almost all domains, such as education, employment, and immigration. Due to its importance, IELTS can be a nerve-wracking test, but by following these IELTS preparation tips and techniques, one can surely boost one’s score.
However, commitment and hard work go hand in hand. IELTS is a test that requires dedication and rigorous Practice. Allocate your time effectively to practice for each test section and get your desired grades for IELTS.